The Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), operator of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), has addressed recent social media discussions regarding the languages displayed on its flight information boards. In a statement released Sunday, BIAL confirmed that there have been no changes to the existing language protocols for these displays.
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Social Media Sparks Language Debate
The clarification comes in response to a viral video circulating on platform X (formerly known as Twitter), which showcased KIA’s flight information display boards presenting details in Kannada and English, but notably omitting Hindi. This observation ignited a broader conversation online about the representation of languages in public spaces, especially in a cosmopolitan hub like Bengaluru.
Some users questioned the practicality of excluding Hindi, considering its widespread use across India. One user remarked, “Does the airport believe that only those who know English and Kannada visit Bengaluru?” Conversely, others supported the current language choices, emphasizing the importance of promoting the regional language alongside English for international travelers.
BIAL’s Official Statement
Addressing the concerns, a BIAL spokesperson stated, “There has been no change in our flight information display system. In line with established practices, the displays continue to feature English and Kannada to effectively assist passengers. Additionally, the way-finding signages throughout the terminals are displayed in English, Kannada, and Hindi.”
Historical Context and Language Policies
This is not the first instance where language use at KIA has been a topic of discussion. In December 2018, the central government issued a directive mandating that announcements about security checks, baggage delivery, flight details, and boarding at airports should be made in the regional language, followed by Hindi and English. However, KIA operates as a ‘silent airport,’ meaning it minimizes public announcements to reduce noise pollution. Instead, airlines communicate with passengers via SMS and other digital means. At that time, statutory and security-related announcements were made in Kannada, Hindi, and English, with way-finding signs also incorporating all three languages.
Recent Initiatives to Promote Kannada
In September 2024, efforts to promote Kannada at KIA gained momentum. Mahesh Joshi, president of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, met with BIAL’s Managing Director & CEO, Hari Marar, to discuss integrating Kannada as the first language for flight announcements. Joshi proposed that this initiative commence by Kannada Rajyotsava Day on November 1, aiming to extend the practice to other state airports subsequently. He also planned to write to the Ministry of Civil Aviation to facilitate this change. BIAL responded positively, expressing commitment to nurturing and promoting the language, art, and culture of Karnataka.
Public Reactions and Broader Implications
The recent social media discourse reflects the complex dynamics of language representation in public spaces within multilingual societies like India. Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, attracts a diverse population, including international travelers and migrants from various parts of the country. Balancing the promotion of the regional language with the need to cater to a broad audience is a nuanced challenge.
While some citizens advocate for prioritizing Kannada to preserve and promote local culture, others emphasize the practicality of including widely spoken languages like Hindi to accommodate non-Kannada speakers. This debate is not isolated to Bengaluru. For instance, in August 2023, a netizen questioned the use of Hindi at Shivamogga airport, prompting responses from Karnataka ministers and reigniting discussions about language policies in public infrastructures.
BIAL denies language controversy
BIAL’s reaffirmation of its language policies at KIA underscores the airport’s commitment to serving its diverse clientele while respecting regional linguistic heritage. As language remains a sensitive and significant aspect of cultural identity, such dialogues highlight the ongoing efforts required to balance inclusivity with regional pride in India’s public spaces.
By – Sonali
